What is Diverticulosis?

Diverticulosis is a gastrointestinal condition characterized by colon tissue protruding through the weakened walls of the colon. These protruding areas of tissue are known as diverticula. If they become inflamed, the condition is known as diverticulitis.

Risk Factors for Developing Diverticulosis

You may be at increased risk of developing diverticulosis if you:

• Are over 50

• Are obese

• Don’t exercise

• Smoke or drink excessive amounts of alcohol

• Eat a diet low in fiber

• Eat a diet high in red meat

• Have low levels of vitamin D

• Take some medications, including steroids, opioids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Signs and Symptoms of Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis can cause severe abdominal pain and cramping, which can become chronic. Additional signs and symptoms of diverticulosis include:

• Changes in bowel habits

• Fever and nausea

• Chronic diarrhea, bloating, or constipation

• Black, tarry stools, caused by blood in the stool

How Diverticulosis is Diagnosed

To confirm a diagnosis of diverticulosis, your gastroenterologist may require stool testing to check for blood in the stool and imaging studies such as a colonoscopy to check for abnormalities in the colon.

How Diverticulosis is Treated

Diverticulosis should be treated and managed by a gastroenterologist. Treatment may combine several options, including medications, supplements, and lifestyle and dietary changes. Your gastroenterologist may prescribe:

• Mesalazine or antibiotics like rifaximin to reduce painful diverticulosis symptoms

• Probiotics and fiber supplements to regulate bowel movements

• Increasing your fiber intake to help with bowel movements

Severe diverticulosis may require additional treatment, including intravenous antibiotics delivered in a hospital setting, to help control symptoms.

What You Can Do to Get Relief from Acute Symptoms of Diverticulosis

When you are experiencing acute symptoms of diverticulosis, it’s important to:

• Rest so your body can heal

• Change to a liquid diet for a few days to make bowel movements easier

• Add solid foods gradually to prevent pain with bowel movements

Want To Know More About Diverticulosis?

Talk with the experts to learn more about the signs, symptoms, treatment, and management of diverticulosis and how your gastroenterologist can help. Call Dr. Parviz Gholami at Calabasas Advanced Gastroenterology in Calabasas, CA. You can reach him in the office by calling (818) 696-8840, so call today.